Chicago's defense is packed, and Wyatt Kaiser remains unsigned as camp nears. Kaiser and a fit with Connor Allen could form a sturdy third pair if Chicago sorts out nine to ten viable NHL defensemen on the roster. A wave of young blueliners—Del Mastro among them—has the organization eyeing movement to balance role and ice time, making this a true numbers game for the Blackhawks.

Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs are shaping their camp approach with a crowded one-way contract situation, and the chatter around Jack Roslovic adds another layer to their roster shuffle. On the West, Luke Hughes looms as a key pressure point for New Jersey, while Auston Matthews primes to regain form after health trips. Mitch Marner’s 70-goal ceiling lingers as a fantasy anchor in Toronto, even as moves ripple through the lineup.